Medicinal paste

Also oil paste. A preparation made with vegetable oil and bee’s wax, and applied topically in the treatment of sores or burns. Medicinal pastes are made by first heating the oil, blending in the wax, and adding the ground medicinals while the mixture is still hot. The paste is ready for use when cool. Some formula stipulates that certain medicinals be added in the form of decocting slices, which are first fried in the oil and the dregs removed before the wax and powdered medicinals are blended in. Aromatic medicinals such as borneol (Borneolum, 冰片 bīng piàn) and camphor (Camphora, 樟脑 zhāng nǎo) are added after the paste has cooled to ensure that they retain their full strength. Nowadays, finely ground materials are often combined with a petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and glycerin base to make ointment. See paste.